Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 25, 2026

08:18
Microscopic Visualization of Porous Nanographenes Synthesized through a Combination of Solution and On-Surface Chemistry
Published on: March 4, 2021
2.3K
On-Surface Synthesis of Atomically Precise Graphene Nanoribbons
Leopold Talirz1,2, Pascal Ruffieux1, Roman Fasel1,3
1Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|February 13, 2016
Summary
Atomically precise graphene nanoribbons synthesized on surfaces offer tunable electronic properties for digital logic. This approach combines graphene
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Condensed Matter Physics
Background:
- Graphene's excellent electronic properties are hindered by its zero bandgap.
- Atomically precise graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) are sought for electronic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the on-surface synthesis of GNRs.
- To discuss advancements in understanding reaction mechanisms and GNR properties.
Main Methods:
- Surface-assisted polymerization and cyclodehydrogenation of organic precursors.
- On-surface synthesis techniques.
- Characterization of synthesized GNRs.
Main Results:
- Achieved atomically precise GNRs with controlled widths and edge structures.
- Demonstrated potential for large bandgaps suitable for digital logic.
Conclusions:
- On-surface synthesis is a viable route to engineer GNRs.
- Further research is needed to overcome remaining challenges in GNR fabrication and application.

